“I think these queries are unnecessarily personal, but I see, so far, no harm in replying. Mrs. Stannard knew so well her husband’s temperament and disposition, that usually she laughed at his sudden adorations, knowing that he tired of them very quickly. The Stannards were a model and a modern couple. They never stooped to petty jealousies or bickerings, and had wide tolerance for each other’s actions.”
“Mrs. Stannard is his second wife, is she not?”
“Yes, they were married something more than two years ago.”
“And Mrs. Stannard had other suitors, who were disappointed at her marriage?”
“That is usually true of any beautiful woman.”
“But in her case you know of instances?” Bobsy smiled pleasantly.
“Naturally, as I know her so well.”
“And is Mr. Courtenay one of them?”
“Mr. Courtenay was one of her devoted admirers, and since the marriage he has been a friend warmly welcomed here by both Mr. and Mrs. Stannard. No breath of reproach may be brought against Joyce Stannard or Eugene Courtenay. Of this I can assure you.”
“And the young lady,—is Barry Stannard a suitor of hers?”